BLM Speeds Up Geothermal Drilling with New Fast-Track Rule
Published Date: 4/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The Bureau of Land Management just added a new shortcut to speed up geothermal energy exploration on public lands, starting April 28, 2026. This change means fewer paperwork hurdles for companies exploring geothermal resources, helping clean energy projects move faster without extra costs. If you’re involved in land use or energy, this update makes things simpler and quicker!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Faster geothermal exploration approvals
If you run a geothermal exploration business, the BLM can use a new categorical exclusion (CE) to approve notices of intent faster starting April 28, 2026. The CE lets the BLM avoid longer NEPA reviews (an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement) for eligible exploration operations, which should reduce permitting timelines and paperwork for projects that meet the CE limits.
10‑acre limit and reclamation rules
The CE applies only to exploration operations that do not exceed 10 acres of total surface disturbance and that require reclamation of disturbed areas and temporary routes. Temporary routes must be reclaimed so vegetative cover is reestablished as soon as possible, but no later than 10 years after approved reclamation begins, and the CE does not allow direct testing or resource production.
Streamlining is conditional on extra review
Even with the new CE, the BLM must evaluate whether any ‘‘extraordinary circumstances’’ exist (per 43 CFR 46.215). If such circumstances are present—for example effects on listed species, wetlands, or unique/uncertain risks—the BLM cannot rely on the CE and must prepare an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement before authorizing the action.
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